In August 2022, the first "migrant bus" arrived in Chicago. That year, Texas Governor Greg Abbott began sending groups of immigrants to sanctuary cities across the U.S. Since then, more than 51,000 immigrants have arrived in our city.

Abbott wanted to undermine Chicagoans’ commitment to welcoming immigrants by overwhelming us with new arrivals. But it didn’t work. Instead, our communities mobilized—organizing to provide shelter, food, warm clothing, and legal support for our new neighbors.

Manos Entrelazadas South Side Alliance (MESA) began as an informal network of volunteers distributing donations at immigrant shelters in Chicago police stations. In April 2024, we opened our free store inside the Coppin Community Center, a Washington Park-based nonprofit with a long history on the South Side. By joining forces, we committed ourselves to serving all Chicagoans, new arrivals and lifelong residents alike. Together, we provide our community with food, clothes, household items, toiletries, furniture, emergency assistance, and more.

The migrant buses have stopped coming, but our work isn't done. Our basic needs are the same, regardless of immigration status. What we built to support new arrivals shouldn't just disappear. It should grow—to support everyone who calls Chicago home.

MESA is fiscally sponsored by the Hyde Park-Kenwood Interfaith Council. Please support our work by volunteering your time, donating items to our free store, or contributing funds. We’re run entirely by volunteers, so your donation goes straight towards our community.